“Your government is listening and knows that the availability and delivery of health services have a significant impact on the quality of life of the people of our province,” said Health Minister Victor Boudreau. “This report is based on current initiatives, ongoing commitments and stakeholder feedback, and delineates the goals and actions that will help to improve the health and well-being of New Brunswickers through sustainable and improved primary, acute and long-term care systems.”

The report highlights three priority initiatives aimed at improving primary and acute care:

Continuing work to implement a new approach to family medicine with the New Brunswick Medical Society.

Developing a model of integrated and co-ordinated health-care services for more consistent and appropriate care.

Continuing work on collaborative action allowing people to receive the proper level of care in the most appropriate setting, ideally in their home.

The report also outlines actions to achieve better health outcomes in the following areas:

Shifting the focus from hospital-based care to preventative interventions, primary health care and access to care in the community.

Better access to patient-focused care through interdisciplinary teams as part of an integrated treatment framework.

Leveraging expertise and resources to increase capacity in the health-care system.

Facilitating access to programs and services in the health-care system.

“Improvement to our health-care system will require a holistic approach,” said Dr. Lynn Murphy-Kaulbeck, president of the New Brunswick Medical Society. “We are pleased to see the government is taking steps to address key areas of the system, as well as the underlying factors that impact health.”

The New Brunswick Family Plan focuses government action in seven priority areas: improving access to primary and acute care; promoting wellness; supporting people with mental health challenges; fostering healthy aging and support for seniors; advancing women’s equality; reducing poverty; and supporting people with disabilities.